Seoul Fashion Week has risen as one of the most influential fashion events in Asia, providing a platform that unites both established designers and emerging talents. Held biannually in South Korea’s capital, SFW not only presents innovative collections but also serves as a leader for fashion across the continent. Positioned between the major global fashion weeks in Paris, Milan, New York, and London, the event plays a pivotal role in shaping international trends.

The thrill of SFW SS 2025, moved up to an earlier date this year, was obvious as we immersed ourselves in cutting-edge fashion. Among the many interesting moments, one left a lasting impression: a chance to sit down with two of the industry’s rising stars, Park Jiwon and Jung Hayoung, for an insightful joint interview. Both young, talented, and incredibly poised, Jiwon and Hayoung opened up about their modelling experiences, approach to the craft, and the changing scene of fashion.

The key to capturing the essence of a brand in a photoshoot is understanding its target audience and aesthetic – Jiwon

Navigating the Runway: A Shared Focus

Both models have worked with iconic designers, including SONGZIO and LIE SANG BONG, names that reverberate in the Korean and global fashion scenes. When asked about their most empowering moments on the runway, Park Jiwon recalled her experience walking for SONGZIO: “The runway requires great focus, and that often brings out a powerful energy. The SONGZIO show had a huge crowd and a long runway, so I was initially incredibly nervous. But as I walked, the nerves turned into excitement.”

Jung Hayoung nodded in agreement, adding that every runway show is an opportunity to channel the designer’s vision. “Each designer has their preferences, and understanding their taste is crucial,” she explained. “I do a lot of research beforehand and prepare by thinking about how I can highlight my strengths while honouring the designer’s aesthetic.”

For both models, the intensity of a live runway show is where their skills are tested. As Hayoung noted, “The real challenge is walking without making a single mistake. It requires immense focus.”

The Transition Between Runway and Editorial Work

Beyond the runway, both models have graced the pages of top magazines like Vogue Korea, Elle Korea,  and DAZED Korea. While the world of editorial shoots presents challenges, the two see more similarities than differences between the two forms of modelling.

“In an editorial shoot, there’s a kind of anticipation,” said Jiwon. “On the runway, everything is live and in the moment, but with editorial shoots, the excitement builds as you wait to see the final results.” Hayoung agreed, but she emphasised the importance of adjusting to the demands of each setting. “Editorial shoots can be more meticulous because there’s more time to capture the perfect image,” she said. “But both require a model to focus on every movement and expression.”

Balancing Tradition and Modernity

One of the most striking features of Korean fashion today is its blend of tradition and modernity – a balance that both models reflect in their work. This concept is especially true when working with well-known brands in Korea, including Laneige, Innisfree, and Nike.

“The key to capturing the essence of a brand in a photoshoot is understanding its target audience and aesthetic,” Jiwon explained. “It’s crucial to embody the brand’s vision and communicate its visual message clearly.” 

Hayoung added that, in her experience, modelling for different brands involves studying and interpreting the brand’s identity. “When you see the final result, it’s clear whether or not the model truly grasped the brand,” she noted. “The work of the top staff is important, but as a model, I always make sure to prepare thoroughly to represent the brand effectively.”

The Competitive World of Fashion

At just 22 years old, Hayoung has already made significant strides in the modelling industry. When asked how she navigates such a competitive field, she emphasised the importance of learning from every situation. “It’s a tough industry, but I always strive to gain as much experience as possible. I learn from the strengths of senior models I meet on set and work hard to improve myself.”

Jiwon shared a similar feeling, pointing out that recognizing one’s strengths is key to succeeding in such a competitive space. “It’s important to understand exactly what your unique qualities are,” she said. “For me, my smile is my strongest asset, and I make sure to perfect it for each shoot or show.”

Both models agreed that while the fashion industry can be demanding, maintaining a positive mindset is essential for long-term success. “There are always challenges, but staying motivated and remembering why you started helps you keep going,” said Hayoung.

Staying Grounded and Healthy

Given the rigorous demands of the modelling world, both Jiwon and Hayoung prioritise their health and well-being. “I try to get plenty of sleep and maintain a simple daily skincare routine,” Jiwon shared. “Regular exercise is also important for keeping my energy up.”

Hayoung’s approach was similar, with an emphasis on hydration. “Drinking a lot of water is essential for beauty from the inside out,” she said. “No matter how much skincare you do, it won’t work without hydration. I also make sure to stay active, and on my days off, I love going to the sauna to sweat out the stress.”

When things get tough, I constantly ask myself questions and find ways to improve through self-reflection – Hayoung

Personal Style and Future Aspirations

When it comes to personal style, Jiwon describes herself as a chameleon. “It’s hard to define my fashion style with just one word, as it changes depending on how I feel. This year I’ve been enjoying more feminine moods in my fashion choices.”

Jiwon is also focused on the bigger picture, looking forward to continuing her journey as a global model. “Rather than naming specific brands or designers, I want to continue taking on diverse and exciting projects. I hope to grow into a global model who can handle a wide variety of brands and concepts.”

Hayoung, too, is ambitious about her future. She believes her experience with various projects, including broadcast work, has shaped her modelling approach. “Through various content projects, I’ve become more comfortable in front of the camera. Thanks to these experiences, I can now easily find the main camera on the runway and focus on it, which has been a great help in my modelling work.”

Finding Balance and Relaxation

Despite the fast-paced nature of the fashion industry, both models make time for self-care. Jiwon’s perfect day off involves “plenty of sleep, exercise, and spending time enjoying delicious meals with my favourite people.”

Hayoung prefers to relax through healthy habits. “I love eating healthy food, exercising, and going to the sauna. Sweating it out through exercise and a sauna session, followed by a good night’s sleep, makes for the happiest day off.”

Advice for Aspiring Models

For those looking to break into the fashion industry, both models offer sage advice. Jiwon emphasises the importance of knowing your strengths. “It’s important to understand exactly what your strengths are and what unique qualities you can bring to the table.”

Hayoung encourages aspiring models to always be learning. “I try to gain as much experience as possible and learn from the strengths and qualities of senior models. This constant effort to learn from any situation helps me become more professional and allows me to grow.”

Motivation from Within and Support from Afar

Modelling can often be a solitary career, with long hours, many castings, and a lot of travel. Both models draw strength from different sources. For Jiwon, her support system includes everyone around her – friends, family, and colleagues. “Knowing that I have people cheering me on gives me strength,” she said. “Their encouragement is a huge motivator.”

In contrast, Hayoung revealed that her primary source of motivation is herself. “I know myself best,” she explained. “When things get tough, I constantly ask myself questions and find ways to improve through self-reflection.”

As the conversation drew to a close, it was obvious that Jiwon and Hayoung, though at the beginning of their careers, possessed both the drive and wisdom needed to impress and survive the fashion industry. Their professionalism and, above all, ability to adapt will no doubt keep them at the front of the modelling world as they continue to grow and succeed. And with Seoul Fashion Week continuing to gain global attention, we are sure to see more from these two rising stars in the near future.

Written and interviewed by Maggie Gogler

Featured images courtesy of ESteem Group Company

We would like to thank ESteem Group Company for helping us with the interview and for their kind hospitality.

_{View of the Arts is an online publication that chiefly deals with films, music, and art, with an emphasis on the Asian entertainment industry. We are hoping our audience will grow with us as we begin to explore new platforms such as K-pop / K-music, and Asian music in general, and continue to dive into the talented and ever-growing scene of film, music, and arts, worldwide.}